A new uberX taxi service is being launched in Cambridge today (November 10).

The company claims it has already proved “hugely popular” with availability in more than 20 towns and cities across the UK.

The Uber app allows anyone to book a trip with a licensed private-hire driver at the touch of a button. Now users in Cambridge can download the smartphone app and book a taxi.

A journey to King’s College from the city rail station would cost £5.80 and from Market Street to the Science Park will cost from £8.65.

Fred Jones, Uber’s general manager in Cambridge, said: “We’re incredibly excited to be launching in Cambridge today. There has been a lot of anticipation for Uber’s arrival and already more than 20,000 people in the city have opened the app in the last three months. From today we’re looking forward to helping people get a safe and affordable ride at the touch of a button.

“This launch also means that locally licensed private-hire drivers can now apply to use the Uber app and become their own boss – choosing when they want to drive.”